News Digest n.2 / 2026
AquaFarm 2026 is Europe's premier event for aquaculture and related industries, marking its 9th edition. The event features an international conference and a trade exhibition, emphasizing sustainable food production, climate adaptation, and advanced technologies such as AI and robotics. It includes specialized areas like AlgaeFarm, NovelFarm, and AquaFishery, with over 120 exhibitors and more than 2,500 visitors from the Mediterranean region and beyond.
The European Partnership on Animal Health and Welfare (EUPAHW) has launched its second international call for R&D project funding relevant to European aquaculture, focusing on fish health, welfare, and reducing antimicrobial use. The submission deadline for pre-proposals is 30 March 2026.
Danish pelagic fleet goes green
At the Port of Skagen, Denmark's largest fishing port, a transition to cleaner energy is underway with EU support. The project involves developing shore power infrastructure, retrofitting vessels, and increasing grid capacity, benefiting both local air quality and port competitiveness.
High Seas Treaty enters into force: A milestone for ocean conservation
The High Seas Treaty, or Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), took effect on 17 January 2026. With 81 ratifications, including the EU and 16 Member States, and 145 signatures, the agreement highlights the EU's leadership in its negotiation and implementation. The EU has committed €40 million through its Global Ocean Programme to support the treaty, emphasizing a cooperative approach in addressing challenges such as pollution and climate change in the high seas.
Call for pitchers for BlueInvest Africa 2026 is now open!
The EU’s BlueInvest program has announced a call for pitches for the BlueInvest Africa 2026 initiative, designed to enhance sustainable marine and aquaculture innovations between Europe and African partners. In collaboration with the South African government, this initiative aims to connect African blue economy entrepreneurs with international investors to foster sustainable innovation across coastal and inland waters in Africa.
